The Rise of Vegan Fashion: A Transformative Shift in the Industry

Vegan fashion is gaining significant momentum, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and ethically sourced products. The Vegan Society’s latest report, “The Rise of Vegan Fashion 2021,” highlights this growing trend and its impact on the fashion industry.

Vegan Fashion on the Rise

Since 2019, the availability of vegan fashion products has surged, with stock increasing by 258% across the UK and US. The global vegan fashion market was valued at $396.9 billion in 2019, with projections to reach $1,095.6 billion by 2027. Major brands like Gucci, Nike, Reebok, Adidas, and Kurt Geiger have introduced vegan products, reflecting a broader industry shift towards more sustainable practices.

Consumer Perceptions and Preferences

The report indicates varying consumer attitudes towards animal-based and plant-based materials. While many consumers avoid animal fur, they are more accepting of materials like leather and suede.

The Appeal of Plant-Based Leathers

Plant-based leathers, such as those made from pineapple and mushroom, are seen as the most sustainable and ethical options, with 42.4% of survey respondents perceiving them as sustainable and 34.3% as ethical.

Challenges in Vegan Fashion

The fashion industry faces challenges in transitioning to vegan materials due to complex supply chains and the widespread use of animal-derived products. Common items such as adhesives, dyes, and even faux fur can contain animal components, complicating efforts to ensure fully vegan products.

What Do Shoppers Want?

There is a growing demand for vegan-verified fashion across all categories, particularly for items traditionally made from leather, wool, and silk. Nearly half of the surveyed consumers expressed a desire for more vegan options across all clothing ranges, highlighting a significant market opportunity for brands to expand their vegan offerings.

A Call to Action for the Fashion Industry

The report urges the fashion industry to embrace veganism, not only for ethical reasons but also to meet evolving consumer preferences. Brands and retailers are encouraged to adopt vegan materials and seek third-party certifications to build consumer trust and drive the market forward.

As the industry continues to evolve, vegan fashion is poised to become a defining trend, reshaping consumer expectations and industry practices toward a more sustainable and ethical future.